Ata Rangi, meaning "dawn sky" or "new beginning" is a small New Zealand winery with a big reputation for serious Pinot Noir. Located at the southern end of the North Island, it is owned and managed by a family trio - Clive Paton, his wife Phyll and his sister Alison. Clive planted his first vines on a small, stony sheep paddock at the edge of the Martinborough village in 1980 as one of a handful of people who pioneered winegrowing in the area.

Crimson is the selection of fruit from younger parcels of vines from our various vineyards on the Martinborough Terrace. In their youth, vines tend to be more fruit expressive, gaining more complexity with time. Now, Crimson is developing more depth of flavour, with a mix of vines aged from 5 to 20 years. The nose is complex and beguiling with notes of cranberry, raspberry, carraway and an earthy spice note. The season of 2018 has delivered a finely structured palate, with a gentle sweet entry and enticing bramble fruits and finishes with a flourish of fine savoury tannins – classic Martinborough.

Made from mainly younger pinot noir vines but with extra concentration from a low-yielding vintage. Classy wine with dark cherry, plum, violet and dried herb flavours. A delicious texture and surprising length. Good value at this price. Drink: 2023 to 2028; Alcohol: 13.5%; Rating: 94 Points; Bob Campbell MW; The Real Review